Canterbury Hockey is very sad to announce the passing of the legendary Canterbury Cats Manager Donna Paterson on Thursday 27th November 2025.
The following words are from some former and current Cats players and shows the love they had for Donna.
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Donna Paterson has been the Canterbury Cats Manager since 2016 and she poured her heart into the team, which has played a huge role in the Cats culture and success. All of the players saw her as so much more than the manager, and Donna always saw the players as so much more than just players. The best people make the best managers and Donna was the best.
Donna is not someone who can be summed up in a few words. Her warmth, her care, her ability to laugh at herself and bring light into any room are things that simply cannot be captured fully in writing.
Her gift was that by showing up as her true self, she made space for others to do the same. She wrapped people in acceptance. She backed you, believed in you, and reminded you that sport is about connection as much as it is about competition. In a world where results can take over, Donna always put people first. She made you feel seen, supported, and genuinely cared for.
Her love for the Cats was unmatched. She loved the “merch”, she brought boundless energy to the team, and no-one will forget the banana bread. She left a lasting impression, whether you shared one season or nine with her. Donna lived in a way that deserves to be celebrated. Her qualities are the kind every team hopes to be built upon.
Donna was one of those rare people who genuinely made the world better just by being in it. She always put others before herself, never seeking recognition and her kindness and selflessness were felt by everyone who knew her. She cared deeply about every person in the Cats, not only as athletes but as people. Always with a smile and a kind heart, nothing was ever an issue. She truly was the glue that held the team together. While her personality and quick wit led to many laughs and stories, it was her calm strength and quiet support that let each and every member of the team and management know that they could achieve their very best.
Nothing was ever a problem to Donna. Broke something in your room, Donna sorted it. Let Donna know the best accommodation in town and she booked it. Coach crashed the van and Donna was on it. Forgot anything, Donna’s got it. Whatever you needed, Donna had it covered.
Donna, undoubtedly, was the heart of the Cats. Through rain and flooded turfs, big wins and big losses, late trainings and early starts. Donna was there. Stalwart. Steadfast. Unwavering.
Even while battling cancer, Donna never let it define her. Her strength, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the Cats team were nothing short of inspiring. We desperately wanted to win the K-Cup for Donna this year and it was so inspiring seeing her cheering the team on on from the sideline.
Her passing has left the Canterbury hockey community and the Cats absolutely devastated. The loss is immense, not only because of everything she contributed, but because of the way she made people feel - supported, appreciated, and loved. Donna was the heartbeat of the Cats and her legacy will remain in every success that the team has.
We wish everyone could have someone like Donna in their life, but the truth is she is irreplaceable. She will always be someone who shaped us, inspired us, and left us better than she found us. Her impact is lasting, and for those fortunate enough to know her, she will always hold a place in our hearts. Donna was there beyond hockey, beyond results, beyond wins and losses.
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Although Donna may have passed away in body she will live forever more within the Canterbury Cats team. Mille Calder and Kirsty Nation have provided the Cats with the Paterson Whanaungatanga award during the 2025 year. This award is not about on-turf performance but about connection within the team. It is voted for by the players and is in recognition of the person who brings the team together, makes others feel included and enhances the enjoyment of being part of the team. Donna was so thrilled that the first recipient the players voted for was Kirsty.
To Donna’s family, we send our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Thank you so much for sharing her with all of us. Her memory will always be treasured.
Donna’s life will be celebrated at a private ceremony.
Rest in peace my friend – we will miss you more than words can say.
The Canterbury Cats
